This fish is best kept in species tanks or with fast-swimming top dwellers too large to be eaten. Bottom dwellers may also out compete it to food. It's not overly aggressive but will take fish it thinks it can eat. It can also be housed with others of its own species. Be wary what fish you choose, see the species note below.

This fish is capable of releasing a toxic mucus from the base of its tail if it feels threatened. This will kill any other tank mates, especially in a smaller tank where it's more likely to feel threatened by tank mates.